The science fiction manga Crusher Joe REBIRTH is set to resume serialization after a three-year hiatus. Manga author Yū Harii announced the return on their X (formerly Twitter) account on Monday, exciting fans of the classic space opera series. All chapters of the manga are currently available for free on Kodansha’s Comic Days app and web service until June 18, offering a perfect opportunity for both new readers and longtime fans to catch up on the story. While Harii didn’t provide an exact date for the resumption of serialization, the announcement has generated considerable buzz within the manga and anime community.
A Beloved Sci-Fi Classic
Crusher Joe is a Japanese space opera novel series written by Haruka Takachiho, beginning serialization in 1977 and totaling 13 volumes. Takachiho, who worked in the animation industry, envisioned the series with strong visual concepts, leading him to hire the renowned animator Yoshikazu Yasuhiko as an illustrator. This emphasis on visuals and a light style is considered a progenitor of Japanese light novels.
The series follows Joe, leader of a team of “Crushers”—essentially, spacefaring mercenaries who take on dangerous missions and odd jobs across the galaxy. Crushers handle various tasks, from research and protection to rescue operations, always operating within the boundaries of the law. Immoral or illegal activities are strictly forbidden, and any Crusher who violates this code is ostracized. Joe’s team, aboard their ship Minerva, consists of the strong cyborg Talos, teen genius Ricky, and the runaway princess Alfin.
From Novels to Manga and Anime
The original Crusher Joe manga, drawn by Fujihiko Hosono, debuted in 1979 and marked Hosono’s own debut as a manga artist. Anime studio Sunrise adapted the novels into a film in 1983 and two OVA episodes in 1989. Crusher Joe was adapted into a film and two OVA episodes in 1983 and 1989, titled “The Ice Prison” and “The Final Weapon: ASH” respectively. The 1983 film won the Animage Anime Grand Prix as the best anime of the year.
Crusher Joe REBIRTH
Yū Harii launched Crusher Joe REBIRTH in Kodansha’s Evening magazine in September 2017. This new series adapts Haruka Takachiho’s first novel, Crusher Joe: Rentai Wakusei Pizanne no Kiki (Crisis on Solidarity Planet Pizanne), which was originally published in 1977. The character designs are by Yoshikazu Yasuhiko, who also directed the 1983 film, lending a visual consistency to the franchise.
The manga has experienced previous hiatuses, including one in October 2020 with plans to return in spring 2021, and another announcement in 2022 stating it would be on hiatus “for a while.” Kodansha published the fifth compiled book volume in February 2022.
The World of Crusher Joe
Set in the 22nd century, Crusher Joe depicts a future where humanity has expanded into space, relying on warp engine technology. This expansion necessitates various services, including terraforming and other space-pioneering activities. Crushers emerge as contractors who undertake these dangerous tasks. Joe, an A-class Crusher, is highly paid but refuses illegal work.
Core Themes
- Space Opera Adventure: Crusher Joe delivers classic space opera thrills with interplanetary adventures, dangerous missions, and a diverse cast of characters.
- Morality and Ethics: The series emphasizes the importance of ethical conduct, as Crushers must adhere to a strict code against illegal activities.
- Teamwork: Joe’s team relies on each other’s unique skills and abilities to overcome challenges, highlighting the value of collaboration.
Influences and Legacy
Crusher Joe is known for its blend of action, suspense, and science fiction. The series is considered an influence on later works such as Cowboy Bebop, sharing a similar theme of adventurers navigating a vast and dangerous galaxy. Crusher Joe emphasizes light style and illustration, and is considered the progenitor of Japanese light novels. The series shares the same world view as Dirty Pair, a work by the same artist. The setting is that Dirty Pair is the story of Crusher Joe 20 years ago.
Characters
- Joe: The hot-headed leader of the Crusher team, known for his skill and determination.
- Alfin: A blonde, 17-year-old female member of the team.
- Ricky: A 15-year-old genius and tech specialist.
- Talos: A middle-aged cyborg and the team’s muscle.
Where to Experience Crusher Joe
- Manga:
- Crusher Joe (1979) by Haruka Takachiho and Fujihiko Hosono
- Crusher Joe REBIRTH (2017-present) by Yū Harii and Yoshikazu Yasuhiko
- Anime:
- Crusher Joe: The Movie (1983), directed by Yoshikazu Yasuhiko
- Crusher Joe: The Ice Prison (1989) OVA
- Crusher Joe: The Ultimate Weapon: ASH (1989) OVA
A Welcome Return
The resumption of Crusher Joe REBIRTH is great news for fans of classic sci-fi manga and anime. With its engaging characters, exciting adventures, and strong visual style, Crusher Joe continues to captivate audiences. The availability of the manga’s chapters for free until June 18 provides an excellent opportunity to dive into this beloved series and prepare for its upcoming continuation.
